Stress management in the nursing profession

Research has revealed an excessive level of work-place stress in the nursing profession, the costs of which are very high. The aim of this research is to summarize the empirical literature on the subject and the means available for managing this type of stress efficiently. The scientific literature suggests that stress management strategies should include the following elements: a diagnosis of the various stressors encountered at personal and organizational levels; individual and organizational stress management strategies, such as better human resources management; involvement of personnel in the decision-making process; and adequate support at the professional and emotional levels. These factors, taken together, will enable most organizational stressors to be eliminated, and should improve both the quality of life in the work-place and the productivity of health professionals.